Sreesanth banned by Kerala Cricket body three years

Kochi

Former Indian fast bowler S. Sreesanth has been suspended for three years by the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA). The KCA announced the decision following a recent general body meeting, citing Sreesanth’s public remarks against the body regarding Sanju Samson's non-selection for the national team.

According to KCA, Sreesanth accused the association of sidelining Samson in 2024, impacting his Champions Trophy prospects. KCA termed his claims “baseless and needless.” Sreesanth awaits formal notice and is reportedly considering legal action.

This isn’t his first controversy. In 2023, he clashed with Gautam Gambhir during the Legends League Cricket and received a legal notice from the league’s commissioner. His most infamous incident remains the 2013 IPL spot-fixing case, where he was arrested and banned for life along with Ankeet Chavan and Ajit Chandila. The Supreme Court later overturned the life ban, reducing it to a seven-year suspension that ended in 2020.

After his return, Sreesanth played in domestic tournaments like the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy. He retired following a final Ranji match in the 2021-22 season.

Sreesanth debuted for India in 2005 and played 27 Tests, 53 ODIs, and 10 T20Is. He took 87 Test wickets, 75 in ODIs, and 7 in T20Is. In domestic cricket, he claimed 213 first-class and 124 List-A wickets.

The suspension could further dim his post-retirement cricketing activities, though a legal challenge may follow.